Recognition of Same-sex Unions in Romania - Statutory Same-sex Marriage Ban

Statutory Same-sex Marriage Ban

On 13 February 2008, the Senate of Romania voted an amendment to the Civil Code, proposed by Greater Romania Party, to explicitly define marriage as being only between a man and a woman. Previously, the law had only used the words "between spouses". The amendment was approved with 38 votes for, 10 votes against and 19 senators abstaining. It was not voted on in the Chamber of Deputies, and as new elections took place at the end of that year, the legislation died.

In May 2009, a new Civil Code was proposed by the government. The Parliamentary Subcommittee responsible for the Civil Code decided to amend the definition of marriage, mentioning explicitly that it must be "between a man and a woman". Furthermore, an amendment was passed stating that the Romanian state would not recognise foreign same-sex marriages. The government will assume responsibility over the law, thus bypassing the parliament.